How to sprout beans

Since we started Primary Beans, we’ve been fielding questions about sprouting beans. After plenty of testing (and guidance from happy customers!), the moment has come for sharing our tips. While entirely optional, sprouting is an extra step you can take when preparing beans that’s known to increase nutrient availability and improve digestibility. Perhaps most importantly, it brings a sense of joy and mindfulness to the kitchen, reminding us that each bean we eat is a living, breathing seed.

What you’ll need

Primary Beans of your choice, large mason jar, sprouting lid*

Steps

Step 1: Soak beans in a large pot or bowl with plenty of water (this rehydrates the beans and prepares them for sprouting). Drain and rinse well.

Step 2: Place soaked beans in a mason jar with a sprouting lid. For the next several days, rinse and drain the beans 3 times a day. After 2-3 days you should begin to see sprouts forming. Continue to rinse and drain until the sprouts are little tails about the length of the beans, usually 1-2 days longer. Once they’re ready, give them one final rinse.

Step 3: Cook sprouted beans according to the PB cooking guide, reducing the cook time by half. You can also store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week before cooking.**

*Available at kitchen stores and online.

**Always fully cook your sprouted beans before eating them since sprouting can promote the growth of bacteria.